Add these unique events and celebrations around the world to your fall calendar
Vivid Storytelling and Exquisite Stays for the Passionate Traveler
As the summer crowds diminish and the heat gives way to turning leaves and cool breezes, fall brings a nostalgic air of calm and repose. But beyond that trademark autumnal atmosphere, it also gives way to a myriad of anticipated events around the world. From top-tier sports to wholesome harvest festivals, fall marks the beginning of a season laden with traditions and rituals, bringing people together from around the world.
September
San Sebastian's elegant coastal charm sets the perfect scene for the annual San Sebastian International Film Festival.
Image credit: Eloi_Omella/iStockAlong with 16 other festivals, the International Federation of Film Producers Associations has labeled San Sebastian’s as an A-List event, making it one of the most prestigious in the world. Located in the beautiful Basque region of Spain, the upcoming 74th year will showcase the imaginative works of visionaries from around the world, including several highly awaited premieres as well as panel discussions, gourmet dining, and awards ceremonies.
Team Europe celebrates their win at the 2019 Laver Cup.
Image credit: Sonia Alves-Polidori/ShutterstockAt this esteemed tennis event, it’s Europe versus the world. Six of Europe’s top players take on six players from the rest of the world, each team racing to 13 points throughout the three-day span. Incorporating both singles and doubles matches, the tournament is a favorite among tennis fans because of the unique format and passionate camaraderie. This year’s competition will take place in London.
Every fall, some of the world’s most ambitious athletes take on the 26.2-mile route through the historic streets of Berlin. A powerful display of commitment and perseverance, even spectators will experience the heady atmosphere of emotion and euphoria that envelops the city. Due to the course’s flat terrain, it’s known as one of the quickest marathons, making the odds of witnessing a world record being broken incredibly high.
October
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta draws in lively crowds from all over.
Image credit: Greg Meland/ShutterstockWatch as hundreds of brightly colored hot air balloons ascend towards the sky and glide over the desert of New Mexico. Coming in all different shapes and sizes, the spectacle is truly dazzling. Recognized today as one of the world’s most famous, and largest, gathering of balloons, attendees can either admire the panorama from the ground or go for a ride themselves.
This clever charity event brings together both locals and visitors to “adopt” a rubber duck and watch it race down Tübingen’s Neckar River. With over 7,000 ducks competing annually, it is a delightfully amusing display made even more special with earnings being donated to local organizations.
The medieval town of Alba goes all out for its acclaimed truffle festival.
Image credit: Framarzo/ShutterstockItaly produces a myriad of popular delicacies, but the star of this festival is the country’s beloved white truffle. Predominantly found in the northwestern Piedmont region, the ingredient is known for its distinct, aromatic flavor and expensive market price. Learn about everything from truffle hunting with Lagotto Romagnolo dogs to proper cooking methods to what type of wines pair best, all while satisfying your taste buds with dishes from some of the area’s most accomplished chefs.
Get into the fall spirit with a visit to the largest pumpkin festival in the United States. A delightful showcase of community and that classic midwestern charm, the event takes over the city’s downtown for four days of contests, festive parades, delicious pumpkin-themed eats, and autumnal magic.
November
A local camel decked out in colorful embellishments for the Pushkar Camel Fair.
Image credit: AbhishekMittal/ShutterstockAlthough the main purpose of this event is the buying and selling of camels among herders and farmers, it has transformed into a multi-day extravaganza featuring local competitions (including a longest mustache contest), cultural entertainment, and even sacred rituals, drawing in visitors from all over the country as well as abroad. Even the camels are adorned in colorful accessories, making for a truly vibrant experience.
This festival is as much a treat for the monkeys as it is for the humans attending. Lopburi, just outside of Bangkok, is home to thousands of playful macaques coexisting peacefully with the city’s inhabitants. To celebrate this unlikely camaraderie, a feast of fruits, pastries, and other Thai snacks are artfully arranged as an offering for these furry friends. The event even includes invitations for the macaques beforehand and an opening ceremony complete with dancers dressed up as monkeys.
Lopburi monkeys happily feast on a tower of fruits and vegetables.
Image credit: topten22photo/ShutterstockAbu Dhabi has recently become home to one of the world’s most innovative wave pools – a wave so good, it earned itself a spot on the World Surf League Championship Tour. Ticketed spectators can marvel as professional surfers from around the world effortlessly maneuver on the water, a feat of athleticism unlike anything else. Thanks to the advanced technology of the wave pool, perfect conditions are guaranteed every time, meaning non-stop action and high-stakes competition.
The last few days of fall mark the beginning of one of Europe’s favorite winter traditions: The beloved holiday markets. Strasbourg is home to a fan-favorite, with eight different markets sprawling throughout the cozy city decked out in pine garlands and sparkling lights. Indulge in steaming cups of mulled wine and hearty servings of local treats as you explore the charming French town; the whimsical ambience will surely put you in a merry mood.